These Easy Mongolian Meatballs take the familiar comfort of meatballs and elevate them with a Chinese-inspired sauce that is the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Each bite is tender and flavorful, thanks to ingredients like ginger and garlic, with just the right amount of spice. The sauce clings beautifully to the meatballs, creating a dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice or blanched vegetables. Whether you’re planning a quick family dinner or looking for a meal-prep option that tastes amazing all week long, these meatballs will not disappoint. They can be customized by using ground chicken, pork, or turkey, and are just as delicious in a sandwich or with roasted veggies. This recipe brings a twist to traditional meatballs while offering a satisfying, Asian-inspired dining experience.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
Meatballs
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1/4 teaspoon brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, grated
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 4 green onions, chopped
Sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/3 cup water
- 4 cloves garlic, grated
- 2 teaspoons ginger, grated
Slurry
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons water
Cooking
- 1 teaspoon canola oil
- 1 green onion, sliced, for garnish
Directions:
- Combine ground beef, Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, chili flakes, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger in a medium bowl. Mix until the meat feels sticky.
- Add breadcrumbs, egg, and chopped green onions. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Form 24 heaping tablespoon-sized meatballs. Grease your palms lightly to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the sauce by mixing all sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
- Mix the slurry ingredients in another small bowl.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and brown on all sides.
- Lower the heat to medium. Move the meatballs to one side of the pan and remove excess fat using a spoon or paper towel.
- Add the sauce to the pan. Stir the meatballs to coat evenly. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Pour in the slurry. Stir until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve hot over steamed rice.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 8 minutes | Total Time: 28 minutes
Kcal: 306 per serving | Servings: 24 meatballs
The Origin of Mongolian-Style Cuisine
Despite the name, Mongolian beef (and by extension, Mongolian meatballs) is not a traditional dish from Mongolia. This dish has its roots in Chinese-American cuisine, where chefs experimented with sauces based on hoisin, soy, and ginger to appeal to Western palates. Mongolian beef became popular for its balance of sweet and savory elements, often combined with tender slices of beef cooked with onions and garlic. By adapting this flavor-packed sauce to meatballs, this recipe offers a delicious fusion between Western-style meatballs and Asian-inspired flavors.
Why Choose Mongolian Meatballs?
- A Perfect Fusion of Two Favorites
This recipe combines two universally loved dishes: Mongolian beef and classic meatballs. You get the best of both worlds – the rich sauce typical of Asian stir-fries and the soft, juicy bite of meatballs. The result is a dish that feels familiar yet refreshingly different. - Quick and Easy Preparation
With just 20 minutes of prep time and an 8-minute cooking window, Mongolian meatballs make for a quick weeknight meal. Even on busy days, you can whip up a comforting dish without compromising on flavor. Plus, the sauce and meatballs come together in one pan, minimizing cleanup. - Versatile Ingredients
This dish works with multiple types of ground meat, including beef, chicken, pork, or turkey. It can also be adjusted to fit dietary needs. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey works wonderfully, and vegetarians can substitute plant-based meat alternatives. - Meal Prep-Friendly
These meatballs store exceptionally well, making them a great candidate for meal prepping. Prepare a batch, refrigerate or freeze them, and you’ll have easy-to-reheat meals throughout the week. The sauce thickens beautifully over time, enhancing the flavor even further.
Health Benefits of Mongolian Meatballs
- High in Protein and Nutrients
The use of ground beef (or other meats) provides a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall body function. The addition of garlic and ginger not only brings flavor but also offers anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting benefits. - Control Over Ingredients
Making these meatballs from scratch allows you to control the amount of salt, sugar, and spice in the dish. Unlike takeout, where sauces can be loaded with preservatives, cooking at home ensures you are using fresh and wholesome ingredients. - Balanced Macronutrients
Each serving provides a good balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Pairing the meatballs with steamed rice and blanched vegetables results in a complete, satisfying meal that keeps you full for hours. - Customizable Heat Levels
The addition of chili flakes gives these meatballs a mild heat. If you prefer spicier food, feel free to increase the amount of chili flakes or add fresh chili peppers. For a kid-friendly version, simply omit the spice.
Serving Suggestions: How to Enjoy Mongolian Meatballs
- Over Steamed Rice
There’s no better way to enjoy these meatballs than over a bowl of fluffy steamed rice. The sticky, savory sauce seeps into the rice, making every bite rich and flavorful. This is the simplest and most traditional way to serve the dish. - With Blanched or Roasted Vegetables
For a healthier twist, serve the meatballs alongside a variety of vegetables. Asparagus, broccoli, or bok choy pair well with the sweet and savory sauce. You can either roast the vegetables in the oven or blanch them on the stovetop while the meatballs cook. - In a Meatball Sub
Mongolian meatballs make an unconventional yet delicious filling for a sandwich. Place them inside a hoagie roll and top with pickled vegetables or slaw for a mouthwatering meatball sub. This variation is perfect for picnics or quick lunches on the go. - As a Party Appetizer
Serve these meatballs as appetizers at your next gathering. Stick them with toothpicks and offer them with extra sauce for dipping. They are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Pro Tips for the Perfect Mongolian Meatballs
- Brown the Meatballs Thoroughly
Browning is crucial for both flavor development and texture. A golden-brown crust on the meatballs enhances the overall taste and keeps them from falling apart during cooking. Make sure the pan is properly heated before adding the meatballs. - Use the Right Meat Blend
Choosing ground meat with some fat content is essential for juicy meatballs. Lean meat can result in dry and crumbly meatballs, so opt for blends with at least 15-20% fat. If you’re using very lean meat, consider adding a bit of olive oil to the mixture. - Make the Sauce Shine
The sauce in this dish is a star, so don’t rush it. Allow the sugar to dissolve completely in the soy sauce and water before adding it to the meatballs. The cornstarch slurry helps thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency. - Prevent the Meatballs from Sticking
Grease your hands lightly with oil before forming the meatballs. This step makes shaping them easier and keeps the meat mixture from sticking to your palms.
Why Mongolian Meatballs Outshine Other Meatball Recipes
Unlike traditional meatballs served with marinara sauce, these Mongolian meatballs offer a delightful contrast of sweet and salty flavors. The hint of ginger and garlic makes them uniquely fragrant, and the touch of chili adds just enough heat to keep things interesting. Plus, this dish gives you more serving options, from rice bowls to sandwiches to party appetizers.
For those who love variety and fusion cuisine, this recipe opens the door to creative twists. You can swap ingredients easily based on what you have in the pantry or tailor it to your taste preferences. The simplicity of preparation combined with the versatility of flavors makes these Mongolian meatballs an unbeatable choice.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, these Mongolian meatballs are a must-try. Their easy preparation, bold flavors, and endless serving options make them a fantastic addition to any meal plan. Plus, they’re adaptable enough for meal prep, family dinners, or entertaining guests. This dish brings excitement back to the dinner table and offers an experience that goes beyond your average meatball recipe. The next time you’re in the mood for something comforting yet different, give these Mongolian meatballs a try. They might just become your new favorite meal!
